Sweet and Spicy Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that balances the rich, savory flavor of chicken with a bold blend of heat and sweetness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe offers a sticky, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the pan. It pairs well with rice, noodles, or a fresh vegetable stir-fry.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs or breast (boneless, skinless)garlichoneysoy saucesriracha or chili sauceapple cider vinegarolive oilsaltblack peppercornstarchgreen onions (for garnish)sesame seeds (optional)

directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sriracha, vinegar, and a bit of cornstarch to create the sauce.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir well to coat.

Let the sauce simmer and thicken, stirring occasionally, until it becomes sticky and glossy.

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper sweetness.

Add chopped bell peppers or broccoli for a veggie boost.

Swap sriracha for gochujang or crushed red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.

Try it with tofu or shrimp as a protein alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover Sweet and Spicy Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, both work well, but thighs tend to stay juicier.

Is this dish very spicy?

You can adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the sriracha.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can mix the sauce and refrigerate it up to 2 days in advance.

What sides go well with this?

Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables all pair nicely.

Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then toss with the sauce on the stovetop.

Does it freeze well?

Yes, freeze cooked chicken and sauce together for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce as a substitute.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely, just use a larger skillet or cook in batches.

Do I have to use garlic?

It adds flavor, but you can omit it or use garlic powder as a substitute.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes, just reduce the spice for a milder version.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Chicken is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that hits all the right notes of savory, sweet, and heat. With simple ingredients and quick prep, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights or when you’re craving something bold and delicious. Give it a try and enjoy a satisfying meal with a kick!